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Arnold Schwarzenegger thanked Californians for their trust

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The actor-turned-politician pledged to turn round the state's parlous public finances

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And he praised his wife - a niece of former President John F Kennedy - for her support

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Outgoing California Governor Gray Davis acknowledged defeat at an early stage

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The millions who turned out to vote earlier had made it clear they wanted a change of leadership

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State officials reported more interest in this election than usual